Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a mouthwatering Asian Pineapple Chicken that will transport you straight to the vibrant street markets of Southeast Asia! This quick and easy recipe transforms ordinary chicken into a spectacular dish that balances sweet, savory, and umami flavors in every single bite. Whether you're a busy home cook or a culinary adventurer, this recipe promises to become your new weeknight dinner obsession that'll have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 1 can pineapple chunks in juice
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by cutting chicken breast into 1-inch cubes, chopping bell pepper and onion into uniform pieces, and draining pineapple chunks while reserving the juice.
- Season chicken cubes with salt and pepper, ensuring even coating on all pieces.
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until oil is shimmering and fragrant.
- Add chicken cubes to the hot skillet, spreading them in a single layer to ensure proper browning. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until chicken is golden and mostly cooked through.
- Add chopped onions and bell peppers to the skillet, sautéing with chicken for an additional 3-4 minutes until vegetables start to soften.
- Pour soy sauce and reserved pineapple juice into the skillet, stirring to combine and create a light sauce.
- Add pineapple chunks to the skillet, gently stirring to incorporate and heat through.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and sauce to slightly thicken.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or soy sauce if needed.
- Remove from heat and serve hot over steamed rice or your preferred grain.
Tips
- For the most tender chicken, cut your breast pieces into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Use high-heat cooking methods like a wok or cast-iron skillet to achieve that perfect golden-brown sear on the chicken.
- Don't overcrowd the pan - give your chicken pieces space to brown properly, which develops deeper flavor.
- Reserve the pineapple juice for added sweetness and to help create a light, flavorful sauce.
- For extra depth, consider adding a teaspoon of minced garlic or ginger when sautéing the vegetables.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with the reserved pineapple juice before adding to the skillet.
- Garnish with fresh chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds for an authentic restaurant-style presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 226kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 73mg
